flaming lips, fireworks and the absence of both on new year's eve

When I was first invited to Oklahoma for New Year’s Eve, I remember thinking, “Oklahoma? For New Year’s? Hmm.” But in the end, New Year’s Eve in Oklahoma City goes on the record as one of the better celebrations I’ve had.

The evening was centered around a concert by The Flaming Lips. And oh my goodness. This band (native to Oklahoma City) puts on a live show that is unbelievable! The music, the light show, the balloons, the costumes, the lasers, the microphone camera…everything was so eccentric and so entertaining. There was never a dull moment, and to end it with a bang, there was even a countdown to the New Year. Sure, it happened at 11:30 instead of midnight, but it was done in the same fantastic style that defined the rest of the show.

Besides, by counting down at 11:30, we made it outside in time to see the downtown fireworks when midnight actually arrived. And fireworks? Are always a good thing. Then it was off to a house party, where I got to spend the first few hours of 2008 talking with friends (old and new), enjoying some drinks and singing along with some of the best pop tunes from the 80’s…because every new year should start with a Bangles sing-along.

In the end, the only thing that kept this New Year’s Eve from being perfect was a slightly-awkward absence of chemistry. I’d hoped there would be some potential for New Year’s fireworks of another kind…but sadly, my lips were not feeling flames…or even embers. Oh well. Better to be hit on and not be interested, than not be hit on at all, right?

Where I am: Lebanon, KY
What I’m reading: finally finished Atonement by Ian McEwan, and also finished The Darkest Evening of the Year by Dean Koontz